Optimization of phenol removal from aqueous solutions using fly ash obtained from power station as adsorbent : Kinetic and equilibrium studies

Phenols are toxic chemicals affect living organisms even at lower concentrations. Reduction of phenol concentrations to the permissible regulatory level is therefore important for wastewater treatment engineers. In this study, batch adsorption experiments were conducted to investigate the removal of phenol from aqueous solution using an industrial solid waste fly ash. Experimental parameters such as initial pH, initial phenol concentrations, adsorbent dosage and adsorbent-adsorbate contact time affecting phenol removal efficiency were investigated, optimized and compared with activated carbon. Different adsorption models were used to describe the adsorption kinetics, establish the corresponding rate constants and predict the theoretical adsorption capacities of adsorbents. It is suggested that fly ash is a potential effectual adsorbent for the removal of phenol from aqueous solution.